Local Hidden Gems

Our Local Expert Says:

Go for breakfast at any time of the day or just sit and have a coffee.

Description:

When you want a bite to eat and some intellectual stimulation, this cafe and bookstore is just the ticket. Looking for a book on witchcraft, dreams, Buddhism or western philosophy? These are just a handful of subjects you will come across. You will also find a wide variety of magazines, including imported editions. The store has a small dining area, overlooking Newbury Street. Try the orzata cappuccino or a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich. There are also more substantial entrees, including canelloni and pork chops. The cafe also serves beer and wine.

Our Local Expert Says:

Take a ferry to George's Island, then from there take a free shuttle to one of the many islands. Great to explore by foot or by bike.

Description:

Boston Harbor is filled with islands, National Parks where you can boat out for a visit, and spend some time exploring. Enjoy the historic sites, check out the wildlife, take a hike, explore the edges via kayak, pack a picnic, do some fishing, go for a swim, or have an overnight camping excursion. Special events take place regularly on the Islands, and include a clambake on Spectacle Island.

-Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
Boston Harbour Islands, tel. 617-223-8666
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Description:

The Barking Crab sits along the edge of Boston Harbor; serves up seafood semi- al fresco in the warmer months and gives diners a clam shack style atmosphere in the heart of Boston. Super casual, and frequented by locals looking to dine or just drink outside The Barking Crab is a popular joint. The meals served here are basic, mostly seafood focused, and prices a bit on the high side ($29 for a naked lobster roll), but the atmosphere is not to be missed. If summer finds the Barking Crab too crowded for you to get through the door, no worries, it is open all year, and the indoor area is quite charming, even fitted with a cozy fireplace. 

-Jessica Polizzotti

88 Sleeper St., tel. 617-426-CRAB

www.barkingcrab.com

Description:

The Boston Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books . Historically significant as the first public library in the country, it is designed more like a museum than anything else. A stunning courtyard and restaurant are part of this space, and allow you to make a day of your library visit. Enjoy lunch or tea at the Courtyard Restaurant. The Boston Public Library offers public tours highlighting the architecture, and the works of famed sculptors and painters. The tours last about an hour and is free without having to schedule ahead.

-Jessica Polizzotti, Boston Local Expert
700 Boylston St., tel. 617-536 5400
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Our Local Expert Says:

Cheap and healthy food with a laid back atmosphere.

Description:

As one of the city's few counterculture/bohemian cafes, the Other Side serves as a key meeting spot for its loyal, eccentric clientele. Students are drawn to the bargain-basement menu of healthy, Californian cuisine, while hip 20-somethings squeeze into comfy sofas and nod along to the cafe's painfully current soundtrack of alternative tunes. When the weather's agreeable, patrons crowd onto the large front patio, which can hold about 44 customers, to smoke the night away. Tattooed waiters match the colorful surroundings.

Description:

This Boston landmark is worth a visit for theater lovers traveling to this part of the city. It has 240 seats and many awards under it's belt. The shows over here range from overseas to local in origin; in format they cover everything from romantic comedies to dramas.

Description:

Below the historic streets of Boston's North End lies this underground 1920's speakeasy. Indulge in deluxe combinations from the city's most exclusive collection of premium cigars, cognac, port, bourbon, single malt scotch, rum and martinis all carefully selected to enhance the taste that lingers on your palette after each draw.